Cultural Spark, Miami, FL (2026)

10/22/2025

And just when I thought it couldn’t get better, I was humbled to see IMEX include a quote from me in their official recap a moment that affirmed I’m walking in purpose, not perfection. 🙏

This year, I also brought my own press team Kirk Gillon to IMEX and interviewed a few destinations Mexico, Brazil, Portugal, Peru, Guatemala, Puerto Rico and Colombia to explore how they use culture to design engaging, inclusive meetings that truly connect global audiences. I can’t wait to share more soon, including audience testimonials Chad Mascitelli AND Mackenzie Dierks and insights on cultural value orientations from around the world.

Check out a few behind the scenes snapshots of an incredible experience at IMEX America’s Smart Monday! and the ImexScoop Highlight

Grateful to (Meeting Professionals International) for the opportunity to share on Cultural Agility and Cultural Competency and to the amazing destinations I had the chance to interview: 🇲🇽 🇧🇷 🇵🇹 🇵🇪 🇬🇹 🇨🇴

Each of these moments reminds me that culture connects us all and when we lead with awareness, empathy, and respect, we build bridges that last. 🙏

Thank you again to everyone who shared their stories and energy. This is just the beginning!

Melissa Acosta

10/22/2025

🙏 First and foremost, I give all glory to God for always opening doors, guiding my path, and reminding me that all I’m trying to do is be obedient and show up to His calling. He’s the one truly cooking something special, and I’m just grateful to be part of whatever His plans are for the message He wants me to relay to others through Cultural Spark

🎤 This past first week of Oct at IMEX America’s Smart Monday, I had the incredible honor of speaking on Cultural Agility and Cultural Competency, thanks to the amazing team at Meeting Professionals International

Every time I share this message, I’m reminded how needed it is. The level of engagement, the real business cases, and the heartfelt questions from professionals in the room all reaffirm that culture matters it shapes how we connect, lead, and build meaningful relationships in our work and our lives. 🌍

I created this short video as a thank you to Meeting Professionals International MPI for believing in this mission and giving me the opportunity to share it on such an inspiring stage.

This year, I also brought my own press team Kirk Gillon to IMEX and interviewed a few destinations Mexico, Brazil, Portugal, Peru, Guatemala, Puerto Rico and Colombia to explore how they use culture to design engaging, inclusive meetings that truly connect global audiences. I can’t wait to share more soon, including audience testimonials and insights on cultural value orientations from around the world.

And just when I thought it couldn’t get better, I was humbled to see IMEX include a quote from me in their official recap a moment that affirmed I’m walking in purpose, not perfection. 🙏

Thank you, Meeting Professionals International MPI, for the trust, the platform, and for being part of this incredible journey. The best is yet to come. ❤️ Tim Luepke, MA, CTS, CMP, CMM, DES Lori Pugh M.S. MEM, PMP, CMP, CMM, CED, DES Jessie States, CMP, CMM Lexi (Quilty) Roberts

Chad Mascitelli
Mackenzie Dierks
InGuatemala InGuatemala
ibañez
MAX BALDETTI
Rita Febrer
Visit Portugal
Jose Arango Discover Puerto Rico
Rebecca Wedekin

PROCOLOMBIA
Favio Jurado

Alex Medina
DMC Partners
Tropical Incentives PV
Karla Jimenez

Andrew Acosta CCP
Melissa Acosta

10/14/2025

🔥 LAST CALL — Boost Your Cultural Intelligence & Save 40%!

Ready to elevate your leadership and global impact? Cultural Spark Cultural Spark

Join me, Melissa Acosta, MBA, Founder of Cultural Spark LLC, for Meeting Professionals International - MPI Meeting Professionals International MPI Academy’s Cultural Engagement Certificate — a 4-hour immersive workshop designed to strengthen your cultural competence, agility, negotiation, and leadership skills.

🌎 Learn how to work effectively across cultures, navigate global nuances, and lead with confidence in today’s diverse meetings and events landscape.

🎓 Earn 4 CMP clock hours and gain practical strategies proven by organizations like Harvard, BMW, and Google to enhance global collaboration and success.

💥 Use code CULTURALSPARK40 for 40% OFF TODAY only!

Don’t miss this transformative opportunity to lead with cultural intelligence.

👉 Register now: https://academy.mpi.org/live/4713/page/21414

Last chance! Use code CULTURALSPARK40 for 40% off MPI’s Cultural Engagement Certificate. Build your cultural agility and lead globally 🌍

10/12/2025

IMEX 2025 RECAP:

Emancipate yourself from mental slavery none but ourselves can free our minds.” – Bob Marley

After speaking at IMEX America at Smart Monday Meeting Professionals International - MPI Meeting Professionals International in Las Vegas this year, I found myself standing in front of a wall glowing with those words at the Bob Marley One Love Experience.And for a moment, I just stood still.

I had just finished delivering my session on Cultural Agility to a global audience a career milestone I had dreamed about for years. But behind the smile, I was quietly battling imposter syndrome… those quiet thoughts of “Do I truly belong here?” Cultural Spark

Then came Marley’s voice — powerful, raw, liberating.

His message reminded me that courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing to show up, heart open, even when doubt whispers otherwise.

That moment reconnected me to my why the reason I founded Cultural Spark : to create connection through culture, to help others feel seen, valued, and understood beyond borders,
to turn fear into freedom through awareness and empathy.

I walked out of that exhibit not just inspired but lighter.
Because belonging isn’t something others give you.
It’s something you claim when you decide to show up as you.

10/12/2025

IMEX 2025 RECAP

Because culture isn’t only learned — it’s experienced. Cultural Spark

After an incredible week at America speaking at Meeting Professionals International, Smart Monday connecting, and celebrating culture in our global industry I took some time to explore a little Vegas magic!

From the mind-blowing visuals at The Sphere, to a nostalgic night watching The Wizard of Oz, to soaking in the city lights from the Eiffel Tower, these moments were a reminder that fun and curiosity are also part of cultural intelligence.

Each experience, each photo, each laugh shared with industry friends added a spark of perspective and joy. Because yes — we learn from conferences, but we also learn from moments that make us feel alive.

Here’s to culture, connection, and a little fun along the way!

10/12/2025

IMEX 2025 RECAP:

People! Relationships! Shared Purpose!

One of the greatest gifts of attending IMEX America is the chance to connect truly connect with people from every corner of our industry and the world. Cultural Spark

It’s more than meetings and business cards. It’s about catching up with familiar faces, forming new friendships, exchanging ideas, and learning from one another’s cultural perspectives.

This week reminded me that our industry isn’t built on transactions it’s built on relationships grounded in trust, respect, and curiosity. Whether it was over a quick coffee, a meaningful hallway chat, or a booth conversation that turned into inspiration, every moment reinforced the same truth:

✨ When we approach people with curiosity instead of certainty, connection happens.

Here’s to the power of human connection, cultural intelligence, and the incredible people who make this industry thrive. 🌎💙
Cultural Spark

Meeting Professionals International - MPI

MPI Mexico Meeting Professionals International

10/12/2025

IMEX 2025 RECAP:

🌍 Culture. Connection. Relationships. 🌍

What an honor it was to take the stage at MPI’s Smart Monday at IMEX America 2025, sharing on “Cultural Agility: Leading Teams Across Borders Without Losing Impact.” Cultural Spark

Standing at IMEX surrounded by hundreds of countries, languages, and cultures was a vivid reminder that our industry is built on relationships. Every handshake, every conversation, and every cultural exchange showed that when we approach one another with curiosity, respect, and cultural agility, we don’t just network we build bridges.

I’m deeply thankful to Meeting Professionals International - MPI Meeting Professionals International for the opportunity to speak, and to IMEX America for creating the most inspiring global stage that celebrates diversity and connection through culture.

A special thank you to my press team Kirk Gillon for capturing interviews between Cultural Spark and tourism boards from across the world, each sharing how culture shapes the way we communicate, collaborate, and form meaningful relationships.

Culture isn’t a checkbox it’s the heartbeat of relationships.

And cultural agility is how we lead with empathy, build trust, and make our impact last.

🔥 Keep the conversation going!
Join me on October 16th for the Cultural Engagement Certificate, powered by MPI — a 4-hour immersive session to help you lead with cultural intelligence.
👉 Use code CULTURALSPARK40 to register today.

Cultural Spark

10/06/2025

✈️ After a crazy long travel day from Florida, I finally made it to IMEX America! IMEX 🌎

There’s still time to join me tomorrow at
9:30 AM sharp in Islander E – North Convention Center for my spesking session:

🎤 “Cultural Agility: Leading Teams Across Borders Without Losing Impact.”

If you’re passionate about creating inclusive, high-performing global teams, this is your session. Come learn how to build trust, adapt with confidence, and lead across cultures — without losing your impact. 💡

✨ Let’s connect — because together, we can change the world.

And SURPRISE🎉
Starting today, a 40% discount code goes live for my upcoming Cultural Engagement Certificate, powered by MPI, happening NEXT WEEK October 16th!!!
POWERED BY MPI Meeting Professionals International !

💥 Boost your global impact with this 4-hour training on Cultural Intelligence (CQ) and walk away with tools to lead diverse teams with clarity and confidence.Cultural Spark

“When we approach people with curiosity instead of certainty, connection happens.” – Melissa Acosta

10/01/2025

❓ Are you attending IMEX America 2025 in Las Vegas?
🎤 Come see me LIVE during Smart Monday powered by MPI Meeting Professionals International - MPIa full day of free professional development that opens IMEX and sets the tone for the week.!

📌 Cultural agility: Leading teams across borders without losing impact
📅 Monday, October 6, 2025
⏰ 9:30 am – 10:30 am
📍 North Convention Center, Mandalay Bay | Smart Monday powered by MPI
Website: https://lnkd.in/eBcFegnA

It’s a big honor to be speaking on this international stage and contributing to the conversations that shape the future of our industry. I’m proud to bring this conversation to the IMEX stage through my work with Cultural Spark where we focus on cultural intelligence and agility as a foundation for global business success.

🌍 My session is built on the research-based Cultural Intelligence (CQ) model, a proven framework for building cultural agility that applies across industries and team structures.

🔑 Key takeaways:
Activate CQ to build motivation and understanding across diverse teams

Facilitate inclusively by setting communication norms that respect cultural preferences

Plan globally with confidence using tools to map time zones, cultural calendars, philanthropic priorities, and local holidays

👉 If you’re attending IMEX, I’d love to see you at my session! Will I see you there?

As the largest trade show for the global meetings, events, and incentive travel industry, IMEX brings together thousands of decision-makers, buyers, and suppliers from across the world to connect, learn, and shape the future of our industry.

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06/02/2025

🚢✨ Dreaming of Disney magic? Let me help you set sail! ✨🏰

Whether you're planning an unforgettable Disney Cruise or a magical stay at a Disney Resort right here in Florida, I’m your go-to travel advisor! 🌴🎉

As a certified travel professional, I can:

✅ Answer all your Disney Cruise & Park questions
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Cultural Spark

03/28/2025

🌍 It’s Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID)! 🎉

I’m excited to announce that I’ll be joining MPI Global Meeting Professionals International as a speaker not once, but twice—on March 27 and again on April 3—to celebrate the incredible impact of our global industry.

📆 March 27th | 12:00 – 1:00 PM CST
🎙️ Central and South America – The Road to GMID

Join me as I help spotlight LATAM’s growing meetings landscape alongside incredible MPI chapters across Mexico to Argentina.

I'll be sharing:

🌐 A cultural intelligence framework for better global connection
📈 Insights on the growth and economic impact of LATAM’s meetings industry

🤝 How diversity and culture power stronger business and community ties

➡️ REGISTER HERE: https://gmid.mpi.org/event/94d82290-8a28-4eba-87da-ffb10cb9ee51/summary

Already registered? Click Join Now to access this session!: https://gmid.mpi.org/hub/events/94d82290-8a28-4eba-87da-ffb10cb9ee51

📆 April 3rd | GMID Main Broadcast

🎤 I’ll be presenting:

"Global Connections: Leveraging Cultural Intelligence for Impactful Meetings"

We’ll cover:

🔹 Real-world cultural planning challenges

🔹 Strategic CQ approaches that build trust

🔹 Inclusive meeting design that drives results

🚗 Road to GMID: North America — The 8-Hour Live Broadcast!

This year’s theme:

“The Road to GMID: Connecting Our Industry.”

We’re celebrating the economic power and human impact of meetings, trade shows, incentive travel, exhibitions, and conventions. This year’s broadcast is a journey—uniting event professionals across borders with 8 hours of live content, education, and inspiration.

🎓 Plus, earn clock hours and expand your global network!

✅ Register now: mpi.org/gmid

💡 Let’s continue building bridges—not walls—because when we lead with cultural intelligence, we create meetings that connect, inspire, and transform.

🎉 Happy GMID, & !

Let’s go change the world—one meeting at a time.
Because global success isn’t just about logistics, it’s about understanding people.

🔗

03/27/2025

🌍 It’s Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID)! 🎉

I’m excited to announce that I’ll be joining MPI Global Meeting Professionals International as a speaker not once, but twice—on March 27 and again on April 3—to celebrate the incredible impact of our global industry.

📆 March 27th | 12:00 – 1:00 PM CST
🎙️ Central and South America – The Road to GMID

Join me as I help spotlight LATAM’s growing meetings landscape alongside incredible MPI chapters across Mexico to Argentina.

I'll be sharing:

🌐 A cultural intelligence framework for better global connection
📈 Insights on the growth and economic impact of LATAM’s meetings industry

🤝 How diversity and culture power stronger business and community ties

➡️ REGISTER HERE: https://gmid.mpi.org/event/94d82290-8a28-4eba-87da-ffb10cb9ee51/summary

Already registered? Click Join Now to access this session!: https://gmid.mpi.org/hub/events/94d82290-8a28-4eba-87da-ffb10cb9ee51

📆 April 3rd | GMID Main Broadcast

🎤 I’ll be presenting:

"Global Connections: Leveraging Cultural Intelligence for Impactful Meetings"

We’ll cover:

🔹 Real-world cultural planning challenges

🔹 Strategic CQ approaches that build trust

🔹 Inclusive meeting design that drives results

🚗 Road to GMID: North America — The 8-Hour Live Broadcast!

This year’s theme:

“The Road to GMID: Connecting Our Industry.”

We’re celebrating the economic power and human impact of meetings, trade shows, incentive travel, exhibitions, and conventions. This year’s broadcast is a journey—uniting event professionals across borders with 8 hours of live content, education, and inspiration.

🎓 Plus, earn clock hours and expand your global network!

✅ Register now: mpi.org/gmid

💡 Let’s continue building bridges—not walls—because when we lead with cultural intelligence, we create meetings that connect, inspire, and transform.

🎉 Happy GMID, & !

Let’s go change the world—one meeting at a time.
Because global success isn’t just about logistics, it’s about understanding people.

🔗

Tim Luepke Tim Luepke, MA, CTS, CMP, CMM, DES Lexi (Quilty) Roberts

Cultural Spark

10/22/2025

10/22/2025

10/14/2025

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10/12/2025

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10/12/2025

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